Make A Dog’s Day

If you’ve been thinking about getting a pet, today might be the very best day as it is National Make a Dog’s Day! This fun holiday is an opportunity to not only encourage people to visit dog shelters but to also remind animal lovers everywhere that they should adopt rather than “shop for a new pet.”

What could make a shelter dog’s day any better than to be adopted! Approximately 3.3 million dogs enter shelters in the United States every year, many of them are relinquished from their existing owners who, for a variety of reasons, have to part with their pet. You could be giving a dog a loving new home today if you go for a visit to the local shelter.

Adoption of a dog is only one way that we can make a real impact on this day, but if our favorite canine companion were to give voice to their wants, they might tell us an extra long walk or perhaps a visit to the local park or Dog Park might be high on their list. When was the last time you took your pet to the dog park? Undoubtedly a chew toy might also feature high on our companion’s list but sometimes they just want to play. A simple tennis ball can often be just as much fun as the expensive squeaky toy.

While you might concentrate on bringing awareness to dogs in shelters or the need to exercise more often at the local park, you might also take the opportunity to bring awareness to other areas which are just as important in your fur babies’ life.

• Regular check-ups. Check with your veterinarian for the schedule that fits your dog.
• Different schedules apply depending on where you live.
• Spay or neuter your pet. Beyond the health benefits, unplanned puppies cause the population in shelters to increase.

There are many ways to make an impact in a dog’s life and this is just one National day a year.  But besides visiting shelters and pursuing adoption you might volunteer in some capacity at a dog shelter. You might stop by a shelter and bring some toys, or new blankets or some other kind of treat. It sure will break the monotony and make a dog’s day! If you are already an owner, take the extra time today to give your pet some extra love in the way you know they love. Take lots of pictures and post them online and encourage those around you to be more aware of their own pets, especially dogs.